Voices of Local Leadership: The Journey and Impact of Cllr Abi Brown OBE
- truthaboutlocalgov
- Aug 27, 2024
- 5 min read
For those stepping into or progressing through a career in local government, the path can be as rewarding as it is challenging. Few exemplify this better than Cllr Abi Brown OBE, whose journey from officer to councillor, and ultimately to national leadership, offers a compelling blueprint for how elected members can make a lasting difference in their communities—and beyond.
A Career Rooted in Local Impact
Abi Brown’s career in local government began not as an elected member, but as an officer. This dual perspective—first as a county council officer and later as a councillor—has shaped her deep appreciation for the synergy between political leadership and professional expertise.
“Without doubt, the very best of our sector is when the two come together, bringing a political mandate and leadership to professional officer expertise and ability to deliver,” she reflects.
This belief has underpinned her approach throughout her 14 years as a councillor for Stoke-on-Trent, where she has served in both opposition and administration. Elected in 2010, Abi rose to become Deputy Leader in 2015 and Leader of the Council in 2019, a role she held until 2023.
Transforming Stoke-on-Trent
During her leadership, Abi spearheaded a number of transformative initiatives that reshaped the city’s future. Among the most notable was the Ceramic Valley Enterprise Zone, a flagship regeneration project that revitalised former industrial land and attracted significant investment. She also led Stoke-on-Trent’s City of Culture 2021 bid, which, although ultimately unsuccessful, galvanised civic pride and cultural ambition.
Another standout achievement was the Fostering Friendly City campaign, which created the highest concentration of fostering-friendly employers in the UK. This initiative not only supported vulnerable children but also demonstrated how local government can lead social change through innovative partnerships.
Under her leadership, Stoke-on-Trent secured over £100 million in Levelling Up funding, the largest allocation for any single place at the time. The city also became the site of the second-largest relocation of civil service jobs from Whitehall, a testament to her ability to influence national policy through place-based leadership.
From Local to National Influence
Abi’s impact has not been confined to her city. Her work with the Local Government Association (LGA) has elevated her voice to the national stage. Since 2023, she has served as Deputy Chairman of the LGA and Deputy Leader of the LGA Conservative Group, roles that allow her to shape national policy and support councils across the country.
She also chairs the LGA Improvement and Innovation Board, where she champions sector-led improvement—a model that empowers councils to support each other through peer learning and shared expertise. Her leadership in this area includes working directly with councils and commissioners to tackle challenges and raise standards.
“I’m passionate about local government, and so proud to be part of a sector that touches the lives of residents right across the country every single day,” she says.
Abi’s influence extends further still. She is a Non-Executive Director at Homes England, the government’s housing and regeneration agency, and a Trustee of Localis, a neo-local think tank focused on place-based policy.
Recognition and Honours
In recognition of her service, Abi was awarded an OBE in the 2024 King’s New Year Honours for her contributions to local government. This honour reflects not only her achievements in Stoke-on-Trent but also her broader impact on the sector through national leadership and advocacy.
Lessons for Aspiring Leaders
Abi Brown’s journey offers several key lessons for elected members seeking to excel in their roles:
1. Local Government Is a Career in Its Own Right
Too often, political careers are viewed through the lens of progression to Parliament. Abi challenges this narrative:
“Many people associate the ‘political career’ of councillors to something that starts in the town hall and ends in Parliament, but I hope I’m one of those demonstrating that it can be so much more.”
Her career illustrates that local government is not a stepping stone—it is a destination. It offers unparalleled opportunities to shape communities, influence national policy, and lead meaningful change.
2. Partnership Is Power
Abi’s dual experience as an officer and councillor has given her a unique appreciation for collaboration. She believes that the most effective local government happens when elected members and officers work in harmony, combining political vision with professional delivery.
This approach fosters trust, drives innovation, and ensures that policies are both ambitious and achievable.
3. Leadership Is About Legacy
From regeneration projects to social campaigns, Abi’s work has left a lasting legacy in Stoke-on-Trent. Her leadership demonstrates that councillors can be catalysts for transformation—whether through securing investment, championing vulnerable groups, or reimagining public services.
4. National Influence Starts Locally
Abi’s rise to national prominence began with local action. Her ability to influence government policy, participate in select committees, and lead cross-departmental roundtables at No. 10 all stemmed from her credibility as a local leader. This trajectory shows that councillors who excel locally can shape the national agenda—particularly when they bring evidence, experience, and a clear vision to the table.
5. Support and Improvement Are Collective Goals
Through her work with the LGA, Abi has championed sector-led improvement as a way to raise standards across the board. She believes in the power of peer support and shared learning, and has mentored councils facing significant challenges. This ethos of collective improvement is vital in a sector where resources are stretched and expectations are high.
Why Local Government Matters
Abi Brown’s story is a powerful reminder of why local government is such a fulfilling and impactful career. It offers:
Proximity to People: Councillors are embedded in their communities, making decisions that directly affect residents’ lives.
Diverse Opportunities: From housing and education to culture and climate, local government touches every aspect of public life.
Real Influence: Local leaders can shape national policy, secure investment, and drive innovation.
Personal Growth: The role challenges individuals to develop leadership, negotiation, and strategic thinking skills.
“Where else do you get to be involved with things that impact the lives of residents every day, making a real difference?” Abi asks.
A Call to Action for Elected Members
For those already serving or considering a role in local government, Abi Brown’s journey is both an inspiration and a challenge. It shows what is possible when passion meets purpose, and when leadership is rooted in service.
Whether you aspire to lead your council, influence national policy, or simply make your ward a better place, the opportunities are there. As Abi’s career demonstrates, local government is not just a job—it’s a vocation, a platform, and a powerful force for good.
Abi Brown
Deputy Leader of the LGA Conservative Group
Trustee of Localis, the neo-local thinktank
Non Executive Director at Homes England
